RCMP ask for public’s help identifying suspect in attempted child abduction

The suspect in an attempted child abduction in Split Lake, Man. is shown in a composted sketch. (Manitoba RCMP)

RCMP have released a composite sketch of the suspect in an attempted child abduction in a northern Manitoba community last month.

Mounties released the image Monday, asking anyone who can help identify this person to call 204-778-3050 or Crime Stoppers.

The suspect is linked to an incident in the community of Split Lake, about 120 kilometres west of Gillam. Thompson Rural RCMP got a call on Jan. 29 at around 10 a.m. about the attempted child abduction in the community.

Mounties’ initial investigation found the 8-year-old victim was on her way to school when an unknown man in a white van offered her a ride. She was able to get away and make it to school with no physical injuries.

The girl said the suspect was a man with short, white hair wearing a light grey jacket. His age is not known.

Other witnesses said the suspect was driving a partially white van that was seen many times by the TCN Gas Bar.

Officers from the Thompson Rural RCMP detachment immediately began patrolling the area, but discovered the suspect had possibly left the community before RCMP were called.

They widened their search to surrounding areas, but did not find the suspect.

An investigation is ongoing.